What does “Ill at ease” mean?
"Ill at ease" means feeling uncomfortable or uneasy.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He was ill at ease during the job interview.
Example
She always feels ill at ease in large crowds.
Example
The new student seemed ill at ease in the unfamiliar environment
Is “Ill at ease” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Ill at ease” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Ill at ease” effectively in context?
You can use "Ill at Ease" to describe a feeling of discomfort or uneasiness in a particular situation. It implies that someone is not relaxed or at peace. For example, if a friend is nervous before a job interview, you might say, 'Don't worry, it's normal to feel "ill at ease" in these situations.'
- 1Job Interview
He was ill at ease during the job interview.
- 2Large Crowds
She always feels ill at ease in large crowds.
- 3Unfamiliar Environment
The new student seemed ill at ease in the unfamiliar environment.
Similar phrases to “Ill at ease”:
Feeling uncomfortable or apprehensive
Example
He felt uneasy about the upcoming exam.
Feeling socially uncomfortable or embarrassed
Example
He felt awkward at the party because he didn't know anyone.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Ill at ease” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Ill at Ease" is unknown.
Is “Ill at ease” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Ill at Ease" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe their own feelings of discomfort or to empathize with others who are experiencing uneasiness.
What tone does “Ill at ease” have?
"Ill at Ease" conveys a tone of uneasiness or discomfort. It suggests a lack of relaxation or peace in a particular situation.
Can “Ill at ease” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Ill at Ease" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common feeling of discomfort. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as interviews, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She always feels ill at ease in social gatherings.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Feeling "ill at ease" today.' to express discomfort.
